Santa Anita’s ‘Seabiscuit’ Retired to Square Peg Foundation

[Wandering Eyes]

Fighting Furrari, better known as the primary horse used in the 2003 movie “Seabiscuit,” has been retired from his duties as Santa Anita’s mascot and has been relocated to the Square Peg Foundation in Half Moon Bay, California, which specializes in providing horses for emotional support for children with Autism.

While the winner of just one of his 16 career starts on the track, the 21-year-old gelding, also known by his barn name “Fred,” was one of the most recognized horses at Santa Anita.

“It is fitting that Fred will live out his days doing what he does best, taking care of young children,” said Candace Coder Chew, Santa Anita’s Director of Print & Graphics and the President of CARMA. “A few years ago, Ability First came to Santa Anita with a number of autistic and Down syndrome children. In addition to all of the kids petting Fred and giving him carrots, one young boy got to lead Fred around the walking ring. With cameras flashing, the boy marched around that ring, talking to the horse the entire time. Later, we were told the boy was non-verbal, and that the horse seemed to connect with him on some level, encouraging speech. It was an incredible thing to witness–the almost ethereal connection between an autistic child and a horse. As Fred was getting older, Square Peg presents him with the best retirement possible as it will allow him to be lovingly cared for and to continue to do what he does best.”

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